How to Buy a Fencing Mask

Fencing relies on wire mesh masks to keep the fencer's head safe from accidental blows. If you're in the market for a fencing mask, check carefully to make sure you get one that affords you maximum protection.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tape measure

1. Measure your face. Start with the vertical circumference of your head. Wrap a tape measure beneath your chin and across the top front part of your head, crossing the ears. Fencing masks are usually grouped by general size (small to extra-large) and your retailer can let you know which one is right for your size.
2. Identify what kind of fencing you will be participating in. There are three types of weapons used in fencing: foil, sabre and epee. Foil and epee tend to use different masks than sabre fencing, but you can also buy 3-weapon masks that work for any sort of fencing.
3. Find out if the fencing you are engaged in uses an electric or wireless scoring system. If it does, you may need to purchase a mask designed to facilitate scoring.
4. Test the mask for impact resistance. A good mask should be able to resist at least 25 lbs of force or more.
5. Check the inside of the mask to make sure that the padding doesn't cover your eyes and block your vision. A mask that is too big or that hasn't been properly assembled may obscure your view with the padding.
6. Make sure the mask's tongue (the flap in the back that lets you adjust it to fit your head) is securely bolted onto the grill. A tongue with a loose or wobbly bolt will not stay firmly on your face when you fence.
7. Examine the bib of the fencing mask. The padding should be thick and there should be no tears or rips in the material. The bib also must cover your entire throat, protecting it from any sword points inadvertently thrust in that area.
8. Make sure that the mask meets any additional basic requirements for the official fencing association in your area. They may have specifications and other safety considerations that you should review before you buy a mask.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when you buy a fencing mask from an online outlet. Though many outlets are reputable and guarantee the quality of their product, you can't perform many important checks if you can't test the mask. Make sure that you understand any refund policies and be prepared to send the mask back if it doesn't meet your quality standards.